Routine Cell Check Leads to Discovery of Deceased Inmate in Josephine County

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (Dec 11, 2025) — A 50-year-old man died late Wednesday at the Josephine County Jail after deputies found him unresponsive in his cell during routine checks, according to the sheriff’s office.

Undersheriff Travis Snyder said a corrections deputy discovered the man, identified as Nathan Adams, at approximately 11:45 p.m. on Dec. 10. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued efforts until American Medical Response personnel arrived.

Paramedics also attempted to revive Adams, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. His family has been notified.

The Oregon State Police has been called in to investigate the death, which Snyder said is standard protocol for in-custody fatalities. Investigators found no initial indications of foul play.

No additional details have been released.